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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
05:50
Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
Published on: September 22, 2023
ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Epigastric Pain.
, Sherry S Wang1, Alice Fung2
1University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Journal of the American College of Radiology : JACR
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Epigastric pain diagnosis is challenging due to overlapping symptoms. This document outlines imaging appropriateness for conditions like GERD, gastritis, and perforations, aiding clinical decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Epigastric pain presents with diverse pathologies, complicating clinical diagnosis.
- Conditions include esophageal/gastroduodenal perforations, GERD, esophagitis, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and hiatal hernias.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide evidence-based guidelines for imaging and treatment procedures for epigastric pain scenarios.
- To address diagnostic challenges in post-reflux surgery and recurrent conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilizes the American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria.
- Employs systematic analysis of peer-reviewed literature and expert consensus (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method).
- Incorporates Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) principles.
Main Results:
- Guidelines offer structured recommendations for imaging and treatment.
- Addresses scenarios with limited or equivocal literature by relying on expert opinion.
Conclusions:
- The criteria aim to improve diagnostic accuracy and appropriate utilization of procedures for epigastric pain.
- Facilitates informed clinical decisions in complex gastrointestinal presentations.
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